Overdrive is using its position as “middleman” between the publishers and the libraries in a way that truly benefits readers. It’s “Big Library Read” program makes unlimited copies of a book it selects available through public libraries that use its service, instead of limiting the number of checkouts to the number of copies that the library has purchased.

So, between September 16 and 30, anyone who wants to check out a Kindle copy of Fancy Nancy: Nancy Clancy, Super Sleuth by Jane O’Connor won’t have to wait in a queue for a copy to become available. Why? Because Overdrive is using its clout with publishers to explore the future of reading, demonstrating how interested folks are in reading books that they know others are reading (Oprah’s Book Club anyone?) and what benefits accrue when a book like Fancy Nancy gets wider exposure.

The first round of the Big Library Read in May, featuring The Four Corners of the Sky by Michael Malone, led to startling results. During the eighteen day period when the book was available, it was downloaded 44,000 times. And its ranking on Amazon jumped about 6,000 places at the same time. So, more people read, more people bought, a great outcome for everyone.

Of course, this is a promotion. But it is the kind of promotion we need more of. It is another new and exciting way to improve the visibility of books that are not blockbusters, to create a buzz about a book and create an inducement for readers of all ages to get on board, and to benefit libraries and publishers. Oh, yeah, it is a pretty good thing for authors as well (Oprah’s Book Club anyone?).

So mark your calendars for September. Start a reading club, inform parents, highlight the author at school! The free market is making it easier to read!

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